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PhD: Advanced NMR of Sodium Battery Interfaces (SEI/CEI and Degradation Mechanisms)


  • Job: Predoctoral (PhD) positions
  • Location: Vitoria (Spain)
  • Contract: Temporary
  • Working day: Full time
  • Sector: Energy
  • Vacancies: 1
  • Discipline: Innovation
  • Work modality: Hybrid

CIC energiGUNE

CIC energiGUNE is a research center specialized in energy, electrochemical storage (batteries and supercapacitors), thermal energy solutions and hydrogen, a member of the Basque Research and Technology Alliance- BRTA, and, a strategic initiative of the Basque Government. CIC energiGUNE was created in 2011 to generate excellent knowledge and at the same time useful for the Basque business network, being a reference in knowledge transfer.

CIC energiGUNE has a dynamic research team of more than 100 researchers and is extremely well equipped with a wide range of up-to-date facilities that are fully available for all its researchers. Also, the European Commission has recently awarded CIC energiGUNE with the ´HR Excellence in Research´ which reflects its commitment to achieving fair and transparent recruitment and appraisal procedures and certifies the existence of a stimulating and favorable work environment for researchers in the institution.

For more details on CIC energiGUNE's research activities please visit our website at http://www.cicenergigune.com

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION:

CIC energiGUNE is recruiting PhD candidates to pursue a doctoral thesis focused on the study of buried electrode/electrolyte interphases in next-generation sodium-ion batteries.

Main job functions:

  • Design and execution of electrochemical experiments in sodium-based battery systems (coin cells, electrolyte formulations, cycling protocols)
  • Development and application of solid-state NMR methodologies (static and MAS) for the study of SEI and CEI formation and evolution
  • Implementation of in situ and operando NMR experiments under realistic electrochemical conditions
  • Analysis of electrolyte degradation products using liquid-state NMR
  • Correlation of spectroscopic results with electrochemical performance and degradation mechanisms
  • Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and use of complementary techniques (XPS, TEM, SEM, etc.)
  • Preparation of scientific publications and participation in international conferences

Area: Electrochemical Enery Storage and Conversion (EESC) and Characterization Platforms

Group: NMR Platform

WHAT WE OFFER:

  • We are offering a 3-year predoctoral contract and advantageous professional development opportunities with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.

Once selected, the candidate will apply jointly with the centre for a predoctoral grant from the Basque Government.

LIFE-BALANCE BENEFITS:

  • Flexible working hours promoting work-life balance and self-organization.
  • On-site work model with the option to telework.
  • welcome program that offers help with finding accommodation and addresses other aspects to help you integrate into the local environment (such as free language courses, assistance with the administrative procedures, help with schools for children…).

For more information: https://cicenergigune.com/en/work-with-us

TO APPLY:

All applicants are invited to submit their application a detailed curriculum vitae along with your academic records from the bachelor degree at this website:

The selection process ends once the candidate is selected.

CIC energiGUNE is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce. Therefore, as part of our commitment to inclusion, we welcome applications regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability and age.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INSTITUTION:

Requirements

CANDIDATE PROFILE:

  • Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related field
  • Solid background in physical chemistry, electrochemistry, or materials science
  • Basic understanding of energy storage systems (e.g., batteries or electrochemical processes)
  • Good level of English (both written and spoken)
  • Strong motivation to pursue a PhD in an interdisciplinary research environment
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

We will highly value:

  • Experience in electrochemical techniques and battery testing (e.g., coin cells, cycling)
  • Previous experience in solid-state or liquid-state NMR
  • Familiarity with air-sensitive sample handling (e.g., glovebox work)
  • Knowledge of advanced characterization techniques (XPS, SEM, TEM, etc.)
  • Interest in method development and data interpretation

  • Job: Predoctoral (PhD) positions
  • Location: Vitoria (Spain)
  • Contract: Temporary
  • Working day: Full time
  • Sector: Energy
  • Vacancies: 1
  • Discipline: Innovation
  • Work modality: Hybrid